The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Bauchi State, has chided the state government’s decision to allocate N6 billion towards the construction of an Oil and Gas Academy, describing it as a pure misplacement of priority.
The PRP in a statement by its State Secretary, Abdulazeez Haruna, said instead of focusing on the pressing needs of the people, the PDP led government is planning to spend huge sums of money in a yet to be actualized Kolmani Oil field.
Describing the project as a “white elephant” venture, the party expresses concern over the state of education and healthcare, advocating that the money would have been channeled to such sectors.
“This ill-conceived project stands as yet another white elephant initiative that demonstrates the state government’s disconnection from the real needs and priorities of the Bauchi populace”, it said.
The PRP said it is unwise when schools across the state are grappling with inadequate infrastructure and resources, while hospitals are under-equipped and struggle to provide basic care to allocate such substantial funds for an academy, tied to the unproven Kolmani Oil Field.
“While our schools struggle with dilapidated infrastructure and inadequate teaching materials, and while our hospitals remain under-resourced and ill-equipped, the present administration seems intent on funneling billions into a venture that, quite frankly, lacks both feasibility and necessity”, it opined.
The party argued that the funds allocated for the Academy could be better spent on upgrading schools, equipping hospitals, and addressing long-standing issues in sectors that immediately affect the community.
Raising concern over the status of the Kolmani Oil Field, the PRP called on the state government to prioritize the future of the citizens and the upcoming generation rather than venturing into unrealistic projects.
“Let us be clear: the so-called Kolmani Oil Field, which has been pitched as a transformative development for our state, is nothing more than a mirage—a dream that has yet to materialize”.
“Investing colossal sums into an academy predicated on an uncertain and largely speculative industry raises serious questions about the long-term vision and commitment of this administration to the socioeconomic betterment of our citizens”, it added.
Yawale Adamu is an investigative reporter driven by a passion for accountability and purposeful leadership.
He specializes in crafting compelling stories in both English and Hausa, with a focus on amplifying the voices of marginalized and underreported communities, offering hope and advocating for justice through his reportage.
Experience
With over a decade of experience, Yawale has produced numerous investigative stories that uncovered corruption, abuse of power, and mismanagement of public funds. From 2012 to 2022, he also served as a newscaster and translator at BRC FM Misau.
Awards
Yawale was honored as the Best Reporter of the Year at BRC FM Misau for the 2012–2013 period, reflecting his dedication and impact in the field of journalism.
